Shocking
cruelty and explosive performances by Wilde and Conte make this
a favorite of film-noir cultists. The plot revolves around Wilde's
determination to smash the rackets with the help of the gang
boss' ex-girlfriend. As in this outing, director Lewis's deft
use of low budgets made him a critical favorite.

According to film critics, this film stands
with others like Fritz Lang's The Big Heat as one of the great
film noir detective classics in terms of style.Actors Wallace
and Wilde were married when the film was shot. In fact, they
were married from 1951 until their divorce in 1981. This film
noir is considered by many film critics as one of the best work
of legendary cinematographer John Alton.